The organiser of a computer recycling scheme is concerned that an investigation by the Ministry of Economic Development could threaten the scheme's future.
About 1,000 tonnes of computer waste were collected this year as part of an eDay project, following a similar day last year. But the waste is stranded in containers in Auckland while the ministry's national enforcement team examines it.
It's understood the ministry is concerned that the recycled computer parts could be illegally mixed with toxic waste.
It says the investigation is based on information received in September but will not confirm reports that up to 58 containers of recycled material have been mixed with hazardous waste for shipment to South Korea.
The scheme's organiser, Earl Mardle, says they're hiring independent inspectors at a cost of around $500 a container in order to keep shipping some waste in the meantime.
Such costs could make the scheme unviable, he says, perhaps forcing people to throw computers out at tips instead of recycling them.
The Ministry of Economic Development monitors compliance with international conventions for shipping waste, certifies all exported waste and inspects any cargo suspected of breaching the conventions.
